Time to Try the Chromium-Based Microsoft Edge Browser
The fast Chromium-based Microsoft Edge browser has been available for months in both developer builds and canary builds (not to mention the leaked versions). Now that the company has officially launched a more stable browser beta channel, you might want to finally take the plunge and try Edge.
The beta is expected to extend to the full version of the browser sometime in early 2020. During this time, Microsoft is expected to release major beta build version updates every six weeks, along with minor fixes as needed. This is in contrast to the canary and dev builds, which receive daily and weekly updates, respectively. While there will be fewer experimental features in the new beta build, it should be more stable to use.
Here’s how to participate in the beta program and try out the new Edge browser:
- Go tothe Edge Insider website.
- Click Download Windows 10 Beta Channel. For Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and macOS users, click Other Platforms and Channels, then scroll down and download the correct version for your OS. (You can also select the canary and dev builds from this screen.)
- Click Submit & Download.
- After the download is complete, run MicrosoftEdgeSetupBeta.exe.
- Wait while the installer downloads and installs the required files. When finished, the new Edge browser will launch automatically.
- From here, follow the onscreen instructions to transfer bookmarks and other data from other browsers and customize the user interface.
- If you skip setting up but decide you want to import your data later, click the “…” icon in the upper right corner, then go to Settings> Profiles> Import Browser Data and follow the instructions. Likewise, to change the look of Edge – such as font selection, theme, and menu layout – go to Settings> Appearance .
Unlike some previously leaked builds, the beta version of Edge does not replace a non-Chromium version of Edge if it is installed on your PC, so some Windows users will have both versions of Edge installed at the same time. You will know that you are running in beta by the large BETA text on the Edge quick access icon.
Since you are using the Early Access version of Edge, you are bound to run into several stability issues and bugs. If you’re looking to hack a bit and grow your bank account in the process, Microsoft has also launched a new bug bounty program for the public beta of Chromium Edge, which can net you up to $ 15,000 per bug (depending on its severity). There is also an official Microsoft Edge Insider community forum where you can post small bugs, provide feedback, or troubleshoot issues.